From historic landmarks and natural wonders to vibrant cultural festivals and unique attractions, Ontario is filled with exciting activities to entertain all types of travellers.
Whether you are looking for an outdoor adventure or a multicultural exploration of a cosmopolitan city, Canada’s Heartland Province promises unparalleled variety within its small-town communities and metropolitan areas.
From unforgettable road trips to the top hidden gem destinations in the province, these are the 25 most exciting things to do in Ontario.
1. Embark on a Great Ontario Road Trip
Ontario is a massive province and is even larger than Spain and France combined. As such, the best way to experience all of it (or at least a good chunk of it) is along a Great Ontario Road Trip.
While there are countless routes through the province promising breathtaking scenery and once-in-a-lifetime adventures, these are some of my favourite road trips for exploring Ontario’s small-town communities and unique natural regions.
- Georgian Bay Coastal Route – This loop route follows the picturesque shorelines of Georgian Bay with stops in Wasaga Beach, Awenda Provincial Park, Killarney, Manitoulin Island, and Tobermory. The entire drive spans 1,350 kilometres and takes about two weeks to complete, including stops.
- Lake Superior Circle Tour – Leading road trippers over 2,000 km around Lake Superior, this loop route features an exploration of Northern Ontario before cutting across the border into Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota before heading back over into the Heartland Province. The route takes about two weeks to fully enjoy in its entirety.
- Grand Algoma Drive – Starting in Sault Ste. Marie, this two-day road trip follows Lake Superior’s eastern shores north before cutting inland along Highway 129, locally known as the Tail of the Dragon, for its twisting turns and scenic vistas.
- Ontario’s Highlands Loop – Covering just around 300 km, this short road trip can be completed in as little as five hours but can yield a rewarding two-day exploration of eastern Ontario. Encompassing the countryside around Ottawa, popular stops along the route include the Minden Hills, Halliburton Highlands, Bancroft, and Perth.
2. Take a Boat Tour Through the Thousand Islands
Straddling the Canada-US border just east of Lake Erie, the Thousand Islands is a striking archipelago within the headwaters of the St. Lawrence River and is a fantastic summer destination for an unforgettable adventure spent island hopping.
Starting in Gananoque, you can embark on a guided boat tour or personal watercraft and glide along the river past charming cottages, historic castles, and isolated islands covered in lush natural greenery.
You are welcome to bring your own watercraft, but kayaks, canoes, and boats are available to rent from several outfitters along the Gananoque harbour.
3. Sample Your Way Through Ontario’s Wine Country
Ontario is home to three official wine-growing regions, with the largest and most famous being the Niagara Peninsula. Here, you will find some of the country’s most celebrated vineyards, including Peller Estates Winery, Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate, and the Two Sisters Vineyards.
While tours can be arranged from Niagara Falls, the best spot to base an exploration of this wine region is in nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake. This charming small town set at the mouth of the Niagara River promises a quiet, laid-back setting perfect for sampling your way through the countryside’s top wineries.
Ontario’s other two wine regions are the north shore of Lake Erie and Prince Edward County, both promising quieter settings for more intimate vineyard tours.
4. Kayak Along Historic Waterways
For millennia, Ontario’s monumental rivers served as the province’s major highways and transportation routes. As such, kayaking along these historic waterways today is like paddling your way through the pages of your own living storybook.
While there are countless kayaking routes throughout the province, these are some of my favourites for losing yourself along the tranquil waters, lush scenery, and fascinating history of some of the most iconic rivers in Ontario.
- Rideau Canal – Paddle through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, winding your way past charming towns and scenic lock stations along this 202 km waterway spanning from Kingston to Ottawa.
- Grand River – Enjoy a leisurely kayak journey down the Grand River, meandering through lush forests and serene wetlands. Popular access points to this 280 km river can be found in Elora, Kitchener, and Paris.
- 1000 Islands – Venture through the stunning archipelago of the 1000 Islands. Start in Gananoque and paddle your way past serene cottages, historic castles, and isolated islands.
- Georgian Bay – Explore the rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters of Georgian Bay. The diverse landscape, including dramatic cliffs and serene bays, provides an unforgettable kayaking experience.
- Algonquin Provincial Park – Paddle through the vast, unspoiled wilderness of Algonquin Park. With its countless lakes and winding rivers, this area offers a serene escape into nature and is the best spot in Ontario for backcountry paddling.
5. Hike Along the Bruce Trail
Ontario is home to thousands of breathtaking hiking trails, but none are quite as famous as the celebrated Bruce Trail. Starting from the Niagara River, the trail spans 900 km across the Ontario Peninsula to Tobermory, at the peak of the Bruce Peninsula.
The entire route takes about 30 days of walking 30 km/day to complete. And while no one would judge you for not doing the whole route, hiking at least a portion of the trail is a must when visiting the province.
These are some of the most beautiful (and accessible) portions of the trail to check it off your bucket list.
- Niagara Section – Start your trek in the Niagara region, where the trail meanders through serene woodlands and past striking rock formations. The highlight is the dramatic Niagara Escarpment views, while the lush greenery, scenic overlooks, and relatively flat terrains make this section perfect for a peaceful hike.
- Beaver Valley Section – Making up about 120 km of the main trail, this section can be picked up from several points to the southwest of Collingwood and consists of charming stream crossings and forested paths
- Bruce Peninsula Section – Explore the rugged beauty of the Bruce Peninsula along this 153 km end-leg of the trail. Easily the most beautiful and demanding portion of the route, this section rewards breathtaking vistas of dramatic cliffs leading into the tranquil waters of the Georgian Bay.
6. Climb to the Top of the CN Tower in Toronto
No exploration of Ontario would be complete without first visiting the CN Tower – the most iconic man-made structure in Canada.
While taking a photo with the once tallest freestanding structure in the world is a good start, you can only get a true sense of its grandeur by taking the glass floor elevator to its 346 metre high observation deck to marvel as the city yields to your panoramic views.
For an added thrill, you can even sign up for the CN Tower Edgewalk, which allows you to straddle the exterior edges of the tower. Don’t worry. You are attached to a harness. But try to remind yourself that as you peer down to the Toronto streets 116 storeys below.
7. Skate Along the Rideau Canal
Skating along the Rideau Canal is a quintessential winter experience when visiting Canada’s capital city. An activity that is ingrained within the customs of the local community, skaters drift along the frozen surfaces of the world’s largest naturally frozen ice rink while immersing within the festive atmosphere consisting of charming kiosks selling hot chocolate and beavertails.
To make the most of your visit, try to arrive at the canal early in the morning when the ice is freshly groomed and the crowds are lighter.
8. Tour a 19th Century Fortress
Dozens of historic military fortifications and strongholds can be found scattered across the waterways of Ontario, with a particular concentration along the Canada-US border. Most of these structures were built during or in response to the War of 1812 and date back over two centuries.
While some have been left in disrepair, many of these historic landmarks are remarkably preserved, with the following being some of the more interesting to visit today.
- Fort Henry in Kingston is a sprawling, 19th-century military fortress offering dramatic views over Lake Ontario. Here you can dive into the site’s rich history with guided tours and interactive exhibits, catching daily military demonstrations and reenactments.
- Fort York in Toronto is the most accessible fort near the city and features well-preserved structures and artifacts, including monumental barracks and old cannons. Visiting early in the day often means fewer crowds and a more serene experience.
- Fort George in Niagara-on-the-Lake offers insights into the War of 1812 with its restored fortifications and costumed guides. Take a leisurely stroll around the grounds to absorb the history and ambiance of one of the most contested regions of the military conflict.
- Fort Malden in Amherstburg combines history with scenic beauty along the Detroit River. With Michigan observable along the opposing banks, it is easy to be immersed in the historic significance of the strategic setting, which is brought to life with interactive exhibits, reenactments, and demonstrations.
9. Scuba Dive in the Georgian Bay
Marine adventures are not the first thing that comes to mind when planning a trip to Ontario. However, divers will be happy to note that the Heartland Province has some truly spectacular diving spots, particularly within the crystal clear waters of the Georgian Bay.
From shipwrecks to underwater caves, these are the top scuba diving spots in Ontario.
- Fathom Five National Marine Park – a must-visit for divers, renowned for its well-preserved shipwrecks and stunning underwater scenery just steps from Tobermory.
- Hog Island – a unique diving experience with its rugged underwater terrain and fascinating rock formations. The clear waters here provide excellent visibility, making it perfect for spotting diverse marine species.
- Pointe au Baril – known for its serene diving spots and intricate rock structures. Dive through channels and discover hidden underwater crevices that make for an exciting exploration.
- The Grotto – part of the Bruce Peninsula National Park, features beautiful underwater caves and unique rock formations. Exploring this area offers a mix of adventurous diving and breathtaking natural beauty.
10. Go Tubing Down the Grand River
I’ve already mentioned the Grand River as a great kayaking route. But it also offers another fantastic activity that requires a lot less work – tubing.
Theoretically, you can tube anywhere along the river. But the most popular spot is through the Elora Gorge. Here, you can simply drive up, rent a tube, and kick back as you meander your way two kilometres down the river while admiring the sheer tree-covered cliffs that line either side.
11. Camp at an Ontario Provincial Park
Another quintessential experience of Ontario is to enjoy the great outdoors along a camping trip to one of its many provincial parks. While there are more than 340 provincial parks and 295 conservation reserves in Ontario, these are some of the best for a camping trip.
- Pinery Provincial Park – known for its stunning sand dunes and serene forested trails, offering a peaceful escape and some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world. The park’s diverse ecosystems make it perfect for hiking and beachcombing.
- Algonquin Provincial Park – a wilderness haven with over 2,400 lakes and rivers, ideal for canoeing and hiking. The vast network of trails and breathtaking landscapes provide endless exploration opportunities with both front-country and backcountry campsites.
- Arrowhead Provincial Park – picturesque lake views and excellent opportunities for swimming and hiking. The park’s iconic ice skating trail in winter adds a unique twist to your camping experience.
- Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park – a tranquil retreat with its network of lakes and rugged terrain, perfect for paddling and fishing. For a serene camping experience, consider visiting in the quieter shoulder seasons.
12. Ski or Snowboard in the Blue Mountains
While they aren’t quite like the mountain slopes in British Columbia or Alberta, the Blue Mountains are the premier ski destination in Ontario and a genuine winter wonderland that you don’t want to miss when visiting the province.
The ski resort features more than 40 runs, offering the perfect challenge for all skill levels. The scenic views of the countryside promise an extra layer of natural extravagance while the nearby Blue Mountain Village provides a European-esque atmosphere that will transport you to the Swiss Alps.
13. Go Star Gazing in a Dark Sky Preserve
There are only about 90 officially recognized Dark Sky Preserves in the world. Twenty-six of these are in Canada, eight of which are in Ontario alone. Most are found within Ontario provincial parks and tend to be focused within the more remote areas of central and northern Ontario.
Still, Southern Ontario has its share of dark skies, most notably in Point Pelee National Park, where you can marvel at the celestial wonders of the Milky Way just a few hours from Toronto.
Whether you make the journey to Point Pelee or venture further afield to one of Ontario’s northern destinations, each of the province’s Dark Sky Preserves promises the perfect destination for hobbyist stargazers and amateur astronomers seeking unpolluted views of our night sky.
14. Attend an International Film Festival
Ontario’s growing film industry has given birth to dozens of film festivals celebrating local and international cinema. Many of these have grown into internationally recognized events and are featured on the bucket list of many movie enthusiasts. These are just some of the top international film festivals in Ontario you have to add to your bucket list.
- Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) – a premier event showcasing the best in global filmmaking. With its star-studded premieres and diverse lineup, it’s a must-attend for film buffs and casual viewers alike.
- Ottawa International Animation Festival (OIAF) – brings a splash of creativity with its focus on animated films from around the world. Expect quirky shorts, innovative features, and a celebration of the art of animation.
- Windsor International Film Festival (WIFF) – a charming, community-driven atmosphere where independent films and big-screen gems are equally celebrated.
- Kingston Canadian Film Festival (KCFF) – a deep dive into Canadian cinema featuring both emerging and established filmmakers.
15. Explore the Canadian Parliament in Ottawa
Canadian Parliament in Ottawa is one of Ontario’s must-visit attractions. The Gothic Revival-style Parliament Buildings perched atop Parliament Hill make up the heart of Canada’s democracy and promise fascinating insight into Canada’s political history while yielding breathtaking views of the surrounding city and the Ottawa River.
While you have undoubtedly seen countless images of the Parliament Buildings, I can confidently tell you no photo can accurately capture the grandeur and intricate details of the buildings themselves.
Visitors are welcome to wander around the monumental halls and grounds of the Parliament Buildings along a guided or self-guided tour Monday through Friday, with some of the top sites being the Centennial Flame, the Changing of the Guard ceremony, and the Peace Tower, the top of which rewards some of best panoramas in Ottawa.
16. Explore Historic Shipwrecks in Tobermory
Set at the northern tip of the Bruce Peninsula, Tobermory is famous for the 22 different shipwrecks found within the surrounding Georgian Bay and the Fathom Five National Marine Park.
While this region has already been mentioned as a popular scuba destination, diving is not the only way visitors can explore these watery time capsules of Ontario’s sailing history.
Thanks to the crystal-clear nature of the surrounding waters, famous shipwrecks such as W.L. Wescott and the City of Grand Rapids promise superb visibility from the surface of the water.
As such, they can easily be explored by snorkelling along the surface or along a glass-bottom boat tour that will bring you to several wrecks a little further from the shoreline.
17. Catch a Show at the Stratford Festival
Community theatre is alive and well in Ontario, and the Stratford Festival is its central hub. Set within the backdrop of the scenic small town of Stratford along the Avon River, the entire community is a celebration of the theatre, with several attractions and sites themed after The Bard and his most celebrated plays.
The Stratford Festival runs annually from April to October and boasts a lineup of both Shakespearean and modern plays performed within the Stratford Festival Theatre, the Avon Theatre, and the Tom Patterson Theatre.
Meanwhile, the nearby cafes, restaurants, and historic buildings make for an exciting way to immerse in the theatrical atmosphere in the hours leading up to the showtimes.
18. Enjoy a Day at a Blue Flag Beach
It may surprise international visitors to hear that Ontario is home to some truly world-class beaches. After all, the province has no oceanfront. However, the Heartland Province boasts five Great Lakes, with several expanses of shoreline promising soft sands perfect for a beach day.
In fact, of Canada’s 51 officially recognized Blue Flag beaches and marinas, 28 are found in Ontario, most of which are concentrated along the peninsula in Southwestern Ontario.
While I’m sure most Ontarians could give you their own opinion of the best beaches in the province, these are some of my personal favourites.
- Grand Bend Beach – a lively beach town along the southern shores of Lake Huron. Popular amongst university students and families for its cottages and boutique shops.
- Port Stanley Beach – a quieter beach town destination along the north shore of Lake Erie. The charming community, soft sands, and refreshing waters make it great for a family beach day.
- Sauble Beach – Sweeping shoreline and friendly swimming conditions offer a refreshing day near the base of the Bruce Peninsula.
- Wasaga Beach – Shallow waters and sprawling sands along Georgian Bay promise plenty of family fun along the world’s longest freshwater beach.
19. Try Windsor Pizza
From Ottawa to Toronto, Ontario is filled with some great culinary experiences perfect for the visiting foodie. Still, if you have to choose one food scene, I highly recommend checking out Windsor at the southern end of the Ontario Peninsula.
As a local, I always thought I had a little bit of a bias. But having lived in several cities across Ontario and visited dozens of destinations around the world, I can confidently say Windsor truly has some of the best pizzas in the world.
Still don’t believe me?
Just check out this list of the past winners of Las Vegas’ International Pizza Expo in 2014 where Windsor’s Armando’s Pizzeria took home third.
Better yet, come try it yourself.
20. Hike Through Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
Ontario has no shortage of superb hiking trails weaving throughout its countless provincial parks and conservation areas. However, Sleeping Giant Provincial Park deserves a special shoutout as arguably the province’s most thrilling hiking adventure.
Sprawling its way across a peninsula near Thunder Bay in Northern Ontario, the park boasts over 100 km of hiking trails that guide visitors between lush tree covered landscapes to towering cliffs with sweeping panoramic views.
Popular routes include the Giant’s Head Trail, the Top of the Giant, and the serene Sea Lion Trail.
Regardless of your route, the park promises unforgettable adventures and magical environments within its front-country and back-country campsites.
21. Celebrate Oktoberfest in Kitchener
The twin cities of Kitchener and Waterloo are famed for hosting the world’s largest celebration of Oktoberfest outside of Germany, making Kitchener the perfect destination for enjoying a little Bavarian culture without having to fly to Europe.
For two weeks at the end of September and the beginning of October, the city comes to life with one of Ontario’s most anticipated annual events.
From sipping a stein of a frothy beer to savoring the authentic German flavors of bratwurst, pretzels, and other traditional foods, the festival is an adventure for your tastebuds. Meanwhile, for entertainment, the streets are filled with lively parades, traditional games, and live music seemingly playing at every venue in town.
22. Visit the St Jacobs Farmers Market
A small town just outside of Ktichener, St Jacobs is teeming with mennonite heritage and traditions. While there are several attractions you are going to want to check out, the town’s claim to fame is its farmers market, which with over 300 vendors, is the largest year-round farmers market in Canada.
Here, you can peruse a variety of stalls ranging from local produce and food vendors to hand goods created by local craftsmen.
Come and buy fresh ingredients or simply wander the stalls for an unforgettable experience in one of the most unique farmers markets in the country.
23. Go Ice Fishing at Lake Nipissing
Lake Nipissing isn’t just one of the top ice fishing spots in Ontario but is one of the most popular winter angling destinations in all of North America, attracting ambitious visitors from across Canada and the US.
Here you can rent a cozy ice hut while you enjoy a peaceful atmosphere made even more magical by a blanket of snow covering the surrounding treetops and natural environments.
24. Escape to One of Ontario's Small Towns
While the tourist cities of Toronto, Ottawa, and Niagara Falls tend to get all the focus from international visitors, the true wonder of Ontario culture is found within its small-town communities. While you simply have to embark on a road trip to find charming local culture, these small-town communities promise the ideal starting point.
- Elora – Stroll along quaint streets filled with charming boutiques and local eateries before embarking on an outdoor adventure through the Elora Gorge and along the Grand River.
- Niagara-on-the-Lake – Escape the bustle of Niagara Falls in this small town community surrounded by historic landmarks and sweeping vineyards.
- Perth – Enjoy countryside peace just outside of Ottawa and explore a historic community with a vibrant Scottish heritage and iconic stone buildings.
- Stratford – Embrace Ontario’s premier theatre scene and explore a downtown area of charming cafes, unique boutiques, and breathtaking gardens.
25. Attend a Music Festival
If you are visiting Ontario in the summer or are a local looking for a fun activity during your holiday, you may want to consider checking out a local music festival. While there are dozens of great festivals to choose from, these are some of the most popular that annually attract thousands of visitors from around the world.
- Veld Music Festival – Canada’s premier electronic music festival attracts some of the world’s most celebrated DJs and illuminates its Toronto venue every August.
- Ottawa Bluesfest – Visitors flock to Ottawa every July to embrace the soothing sounds of the blues accompanied with rock and indie performances.
- Boots & Hearts – The small town of Oro-Medonte just outside of Barrie is home to Canada’s latest country music festival, promising a weekend of fun in August.
